2015 MLB Season in Review – St. Louis Cardinals

2015 Record: 100-62

Runs Per Game: 4.00 (24th)

Team ERA: 2.94 (1st)

Run Differential:+122 (2nd)

What Went Right:

Jason Heyward definitely worked out in what turned out to be his only year in St. Louis. He’s not a power hitter but he gets on base and plays great corner outfield defense. Matt Carpenter had another All-Star caliber season and Randal Grichuk earned an outfield spot with a great half season worth of at bats.

The Cardinals entire rotation was great. Of the five guys who made 20 starts, Michael Wacha’s 3.38 ERA was the highest. The bullpen led by Trevor Rosenthal and Kevin Siegrist was great as well.

What Went Wrong:

Peter Bourjos didn’t take over center field as expected. Matt Adams was ineffective before getting hurt. His replacement was Mark Reynolds who didn’t contribute much.

Reliever Jordan Walden missed most of the season as did, more importantly, ace Adam Wainwright.

Player to Watch?:

Matt Holliday’s production continued to drop and he got hurt as well. He’s not an All-Star anymore.

There’s Always Next Year:

Two of their best players from last year, John Lackey and Jason Heyward, left to play for their hated rivals in Chicago. This might be the year we see St. Louis miss the playoffs.

How Did We Do:

The Cardinals always find a way to be better than expected. We should have known but we didn’t.